Blankenberge: 25 children placed in hospital for gastric and intestinal health issues

Twenty-five children and two teachers at the Vlaanderen Sports Centre in Blankenberge (West Flanders) were admitted to hospital early this morning (Friday). They were suffering from gastric and intestinal health issues for an unknown reason. The Medical Disaster Plan was implemented.

This was indicated by Philip Denoyette of the Blankenberge/Zuienkerke police zone.

Ninety-five children from the primary schools Sint-Lutgardis de Brasschaat (in the Antwerp province) and De Zonnevlier de Vlierzele (East Flanders) were staying at the centre.

Around 1.30 a.m., the emergency services were called on-site. It was owing to the number of patients that the Medical Disaster Plan came into effect.

In total, 25 children and 2 accompanying adults, suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea, were taken to five hospitals in the region.

The schools informed all of the parents. The latter were met at the centre by school heads, firemen and the Flemish Red Cross (known as Rode Kruis).

The Municipal Safety Unit is assessing the situation, managed by the Mayor, Patrick De Klerck.